COVID Advice

Many members were concerned at the relaxation of restrictions that had come into effect from 19 July.

At the meeting, the Co-ordinators made it clear that, should one of us unfortunately test positive for Covid, the Co-ordinators are always there to advise us so don’t hesitate to phone them if you are concerned (contact details here)

Wearing of masks:  the question was asked whether it was necessary to wear FFP3 masks?  It was suggested that a surgical mask is sufficient but is obviously up to the individual.

 

Blood Tests for Telephone Clinic Appointments 

One of the meeting participants asked for help concerning getting their GP or local hospital to do blood tests for Kings Clinic telephone appointments as they had had trouble getting the right tests performed.  They asked whether a leaflet existed to help with this.  There is no leaflet – however the Co-ordinators have provided us with the following advice:

Transplant patients require the following blood tests:

  • Full blood count
  • Coagulation
  • Liver functions including AST and GGT
  • Renal functions
  • Tacrolimus or cyclosporine levels (depending on which anti-rejection medication they take)

Some GPs do not process Tacrolimus levels.  The following request should therefore be made to them:

“Please draw off an EDTA sample with name, date of birth and double bag.  Post in a jiffy bag to Kings College Hospital Tacrolimus Monitoring Lab, Institute of Liver Studies, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS.”  The sample can then be processed at Kings.

The following is tested once a year:

  • Hb1ac
  • Full lipids

Depending on where the person is in their transplant journey the following might be requested:

  • CMV and
  • EBV

Individual consultants or the Long Term Transplant Co-ordinators can provide details of what individuals require.

 

Any queries about the above, please contact the Co-ordinators.